Taper Lock Bush

24 April 2026

Verified by Rachel Mayfield, Supply Chain Analyst - April 2026

Detailed image of a disassembled lock cylinder and its metal components on a colored surface.
Photo by Nic Wood on Pexels
Taper Lock Bush is a split bushing used to mount pulleys, sprockets, and couplings onto shafts without keyways, using taper compression. This design allows for quick assembly and disassembly of mechanical components, making it ideal for maintenance and repair tasks. Practical applications of Taper Lock Bush include machinery in manufacturing plants, conveyor systems, and industrial settings where frequent adjustment or replacement is necessary. The bushing ensures secure fitment while allowing for easy removal without damaging the shaft. Common materials used are EN8 carbon steel, A2-70 stainless steel, and bronze alloys like B10, each suited to different environments and load requirements. Relevant standards that cover Taper Lock Bush include ISO 5946:2013 and BS 1801:1979. These standards provide dimensions and tolerances for the bushings, ensuring compatibility across various manufacturers. The ISO standard specifies the outer diameter range from 16 mm to over 300 mm, with corresponding bore sizes to fit different shaft diameters. Selecting a Taper Lock Bush involves considering factors like torque ratings, material grades, and operating environments. For instance, an EN8 bushing is suitable for general industrial use due to its strength and cost-effectiveness, while A2-70 offers corrosion resistance in humid or outdoor settings. Bronze bushings are preferred when high wear resistance and low friction are needed. Maintenance engineers often rely on Taper Lock Bush for their ease of installation and removal, which can save time during routine maintenance and repairs. Workshops frequently stock a range of sizes to accommodate various shaft diameters and pulley designs. Trade bodies such as the British Balancing Federation (BBF) recommend using certified components like those from Taper Lock Bush to ensure reliability in industrial machinery. In summary, when selecting a Taper Lock Bush, it's important to match material grades with operating conditions and torque requirements. This ensures longevity and efficiency in mechanical systems where quick adjustments are critical.

Where this data comes from: Supplier listings are verified against Companies House public records. Product specifications reference published ISO, BS, and DIN standards. Trade body data is sourced from official member directories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Taper Lock Bush?

A split bushing used to mount pulleys, sprockets, and couplings onto shafts without keyways, using taper compression.

What exactly is a Taper Lock Bush and how does it function?

A Taper Lock Bush is a split bushing designed to mount pulleys, sprockets, and couplings onto shafts without keyways. It uses taper compression for secure fitment, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly.

What are the common materials used in manufacturing Taper Lock Bushes?

Common materials for Taper Lock Bushes include EN8 carbon steel, A2-70 stainless steel, and bronze alloys like B10. Each material is chosen based on specific environmental conditions and load requirements.

According to which standards should engineers refer when selecting a Taper Lock Bush?

Engineers should refer to ISO 5946:2013 and BS 1801:1979 for dimensions, tolerances, and compatibility of Taper Lock Bushes from various manufacturers. These standards ensure that the bushings fit accurately across different shaft sizes.

How do engineers choose the right type of Taper Lock Bush for their application?

Engineers should consider factors such as torque ratings, material grades like EN8 or A2-70 stainless steel, and operating environments when selecting a Taper Lock Bush. This ensures durability and performance tailored to specific industrial needs.

Where can UK engineers purchase high-quality Taper Lock Bushes, and what might be the cost range?

UK engineers can find Taper Lock Bushes from suppliers like MLCTools Ltd or other reputable distributors listed on mlc.org.uk. The cost varies depending on material type, size, and quantity but typically ranges from £1 to over £50 per bushing for industrial applications.

What is a Taper Lock Bush and how does it work?

A Taper Lock Bush is a split bushing used to mount pulleys, sprockets, and couplings onto shafts without keyways. It works by creating a taper compression fit between the bushing and the shaft, allowing for secure but easily removable mounting.

What are the common materials used in manufacturing Taper Lock Bushes?

Common materials include EN8 carbon steel, A2-70 stainless steel, and bronze alloys like B10. Each material is chosen based on its suitability for different operating environments and load requirements.

According to relevant standards, what are the dimensional ranges available for a Taper Lock Bush?

The ISO 5946:2013 standard specifies that the outer diameter range of a Taper Lock Bush can be from 16 mm up to over 300 mm, with corresponding bore sizes designed to fit various shaft diameters.

How should one select the appropriate type and variant of Taper Lock Bush for their application?

When selecting a Taper Lock Bush, consider factors such as torque ratings, material grades like EN8 or A2-70 stainless steel, and operating environments. This ensures compatibility and durability in industrial settings requiring frequent adjustments or replacements.